Decarbonisation Scheme, Dorset Council

Dorset Council secured one of the largest SALIX Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS) awards at the time, with funding to cut carbon emissions across more than 260 public buildings.

The programme prioritised schools, leisure centres, and civic buildings, targeting long-term reductions in energy use and dependence on natural gas.

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The programme included:

Large-scale solar PV installations

circa 3,500 panels installed

Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs)

bespoke units designed, manufactured, and installed

Plant room & heating upgrades

new pumps, heat exchangers, and high-efficiency systems

Infrastructure improvements

Distribution Network Operator (DNO) coordination and upgrades

Programme Outcomes

1,430kWp

Total PV Output

~1,225,000 kWh

Annual Renewable Generation

~588tonnes

Annual CO₂ Savings (equivalent to planting over 20,000 trees)

~£350,000

Annual Cost Savings across Dorset Council’s estate

Delivery Approach

Step Energy worked closely with Dorset Council through the pre-construction and design stages, providing transparent advice and collaborative planning.

Stakeholder engagement workshops were held to review technologies and tailor solutions to each building.
Condition surveys and energy studies guided targeted interventions to maximise carbon reduction within the allocated budget.
Active liaison with local authorities and the DNO ensured grid connection approvals and programme certainty.

This collaborative approach gave Dorset Council confidence that the works would deliver maximum long-term benefit while keeping sites safe and operational.

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